>>3161205
>A sacrifice of flesh, a finger from your left hand- You made a pact with the Goddess of Ash and Bone, patron of Necromancers like your master. [Main skill: Necromancy]

>>3161205
>A sacrifice of flesh, a finger from your left hand- You made a pact with the Goddess of Ash and Bone, patron of Necromancers like your master. [Main skill: Necromancy]

No votes on if to take the sacrifice further?

>>3161205
>A mere tribute to the spirits of the forest- You made a pact with no God but the World itself, gaining the sympathy of the natural spirits. Your skills at the often glossed over parts of witchcraft have benefitted [Main Skill:Potions]
>Don't take it further

>>3161205
>A mere tribute to the spirits of the forest- You made a pact with no God but the World itself, gaining the sympathy of the natural spirits. Your skills at the often glossed over parts of witchcraft have benefitted [Main Skill:Potions]

>>3161214
>Don't take it further

>>3161205
>>A sacrifice of tribute, a payment arranged- You made a pact with the God of Sin, patron of those who consort with devils. [Main skill: Diabolism]
Take it further

>>3161205
>A sacrifice of tribute, a payment arranged- You made a pact with the God of Sin, patron of those who consort with devils. [Main skill: Diabolism]
>Don't take it further

>>3161205
>A sacrifice of tribute, a payment arranged- You made a pact with the God of Sin, patron of those who consort with devils. [Main skill: Diabolism]

>A mere tribute to the spirits of the forest- You made a pact with no God but the World itself, gaining the sympathy of the natural spirits. Your skills at the often glossed over parts of witchcraft have benefitted [Main Skill:Potions]

Take it further

>>3161205
>A sacrifice of tribute, a payment arranged- You made a pact with the God of Sin, patron of those who consort with devils. [Main skill: Diabolism]
Take it further

It seems we have a nasty Diabolist,with a tie on Further Rite Y/N. Next vote will lock it in.
>Perform the first Further Rite
>Do not

As a heads up- your master was a Necromancer, but she gave you a basic education of all options offered, this choice just determines your primary path and your Familiar.

Further Rites can be performed later, but without your Master's help, they will be harder. Still, they're an option

On the subject of Paths and patrons- it is possible to switch a Patron, though expect your previous one not to like it.

Do the first further rite

>>3161240
>Do not

>>3161240
>Do not

>A sacrifice of tribute, a payment arranged- You made a pact with the God of Sin, patron of those who consort with devils. [Main skill: Diabolism]

>>3161246
>>3161244
Well, first vote takes it for a further rite.

Writing...

>>3161249
You can vote again for that? Ok

>>3161205
>A mere tribute to the spirits of the forest- You made a pact with no God but the World itself, gaining the sympathy of the natural spirits. Your skills at the often glossed over parts of witchcraft have benefitted [Main Skill:Potions]

No devils please.

>>3161252
All the devils

>>3161254
A pity, this could good.

You remember the first Rite you performed clearly, the sacrifice burned into your memory.

Your master had laid before you the options she could offer, taught you the basics of each Path, but she was never one who forced yout to take decisions. She did not seem dissapointed when you took a different Path from her own, and simply smiled as both of you prepared the circle, the scarred, grey-skinned woman standing behind you filling you with confidence in the face of what you had to do.

The intrincate design drawn in chalk mixed with sulphur lay in front of you, yellowish white against the dark wooden floor of the hut. You stepped in, removing your robes and baring your left arm as your hand grasped the ritual knife. To embark on the Path of Diabolism was different from the other options- not only had the Witch to make a sacrifice from herself, but another life as well.

Your eyes fixated on the small animal tied down at the center of the circle, helpless. It was a test of character, a test to see if the initiate would be able to sacrifice others for their own gain. You hesitated, hands trembling as you lowered the knife towards its heart and slid in the knife. The blood mixed with the chalk, glowing, the smell of sulphur in the air as you cut your palm and let the sacrifices mix.

Flames lit in every corner of the inner design of the circle, every other light in the room dimming before your eyes as you spoke the words to the darkness beyond- And offered The First of the Further Rites, grasping the black flame blooming from the slain animal and branding your stomach with it. The pain of the act made you double over, but you did not release your grasp, knowing the consequences.

Black flame bonded with your blood, mouth tasting like copper, you stood up and greeted your new familiar-

(1/2)

" Hey, snap out of it, Mina!" The pitch black shadow pulled on your unkempt hair, its size that of a small doll. An Imp, weak and cunning- though one of a different breed, fit for someone who'd taken the second step in their path in the same breath as the first.Fastening your hood further to hide the small horns on your head, you brush off the familiar. "I was just reminiscing of the day i got saddled with you, B'hil. "
" Oh please, I'm the best you could've hoped for, you cheapstake. Sacrificing a raccoon..."
"Some of us don't like to jump to human sacrifice as the first option" You scoff, shoving him off your shoulder and onto the ground. He grumbles as he walks on the soggy path towards the village.
"What did we need to even do in that place, anyways? Since your master abandoned you, you haven't taken a lot of jobs"
You kick the familiar into the river. It is dragged away- and as soon as you turn back, it's on your shoulder again, the cold water soaking your cloak. "She didn't abandon me. It's just another test, is all. Now be quiet and hide, we're not far."
Thinking on the task you were called for...

>It was to dispel a rumored curse on the well, which had made the waters taste odd and people to fall sick. Perhaps some sort of angered spirit was the cause...
>To use your magical abilities and guard the village for a night, as the rumors of bandits had become worryingly more believable lately and the King's men didn't seem inclined to lend aid

>>3161270
>It was to dispel a rumored curse on the well, which had made the waters taste odd and people to fall sick. Perhaps some sort of angered spirit was the cause...

>>3161270
>>To use your magical abilities and guard the village for a night, as the rumors of bandits had become worryingly more believable lately and the King's men didn't seem inclined to lend aid

>>3161270
>To use your magical abilities and guard the village for a night, as the rumors of bandits had become worryingly more believable lately and the King's men didn't seem inclined to lend aid
What's the general status of witches in this world? Hated, hunted, persecuted or simply left alone if not causing trouble?

>>3161270
>>To use your magical abilities and guard the village for a night, as the rumors of bandits had become worryingly more believable lately and the King's men didn't seem inclined to lend aid

>>3161270
>It was to dispel a rumored curse on the well, which had made the waters taste odd and people to fall sick. Perhaps some sort of angered spirit was the cause...

>>3161274
They're not generally welcome in polite society, but are tolerated as a sort of necessary evil due to their knowledge and abilities to deal with the supernatural, as well as being much more easily swayed to help than the king's men. Some people will outright hate them, others will just distrust them- but to attack a witch unprovoked is usually thought of as a very stupid move that could bring ruin to a village, so it's a quiet resentment. It also depends on how many Rites a witch has taken and their Path- the God of the Sea, for example, is particularly hated by non-humans, so witches that follow him are persecuted by them, and the more Rites taken the more obvious one's allegiance is.

>>3161270
>To use your magical abilities and guard the village for a night, as the rumors of bandits had become worryingly more believable lately and the King's men didn't seem inclined to lend aid

It seems we'll be defending the peasants for a night. Who knows, it might be quiet.

Writing...

>>3161280
What about our relationship with the King's men? And how will cities or places with a large church (if it exists) presence treat us?

The shadow imp leans on your head, its foul breath something you've unfortunately gotten used to. " What do we care if they get robbed by bandits? Maybe we should help them rob the town...get our own share of the loot"
Not deigning to answe that, you finally step off the woods, staff in hand. The village of Wellfast was not particularly rich, nor beautiful, nor impressive. It was, to put it simply, unremarkable in the eyes of most people, and so you had often questioned why your master would choose to reside next to it. The forest was rich in reagents and potion ingredients, and the nature spirits quiet and not easily angered- but you had expected a Necromancer to live somewhere corpses would be readily avaliable, but she had just smiled and changed the topic. Now that you were older and more experienced, you saw it for what it was- so unimportant the Church of the Sun and the King's men rarely visited, and thus a place that required of your services more often than most. Walking into the town, you hail to the guards, who give you a wide berth on recognizing your garb. It is not the first time you help them, though they're still uneasy about you, having been used to the Black Witch herself and her reassuring presence. You wish you had the charisma your master had, sometimes.

"Halt, witch![/i" One of the guards calls out, his uniform cleaner than the others. Fancier, you note, more expensive, though not by much. Your familiar has already hid in your shadow.

>Ignore him, you have a job to do, and it does not involve dealing with this man.
>Turn to face him, say nothing.
>Ask if there is a problem. Try to maintain good relations.
---
>>3161286
Churches to the larger Gods tend to shun witches as unecessary, but the God of Fire urges its followers not to needlessly provoke fights with others. It's still dependant on path, largely- the Sea Witches are again a mostly "kill on sight" deal for the larger churches, due to their allegiance, and the Church of the Sun dissaproves of anyone who doesn't follow the larger 4 Gods. Unfortunately, they happen to be the most spread out church as well.

As for the King's men, they see witches as competition, and are generally unfriendly towards them, especially if they come from cities or arent used to them.

>Turn to face him, say nothing.

>>3161300
>Turn to face him, say nothing.

Well it wouldnt be one of my threads if i didn't fuck up formatting at least once

>>3161300
>Turn to face him, say nothing

>>3161300
>>Ask if there is a problem. Try to maintain good relations.

Fuck, my internet died for a bit there and pc froze. Rebooting now.

I feel like I shouldnt have used 2nd person writing but here we are.

>>3161300
>Ask if there is a problem. Try to maintain good relations.

>>3161300
>Ask if there is a problem. Try to maintain good relations.
Cool thread with good English? I'll follow.

>>3161300
>Ask if there is a problem. Try to maintain good relations

Oh, are we playing nice?
Sorry if posts take a long time. Apparently not a good day to run.

Writing...

You turn to face the guard, your robes sweeping dramatically in the morning air as you fix him with a look from your eyes the color of autumm leaves. "Is there a problem, sir?" He takes a step back, left hand going to his sword, but stops "What is your business here? We're taking care of the bandit problem, so if it is that, return to your... Hut."
Your familiar whispers into your ear "I never thought such a cowardly man could be so dismissive. Let me have some fun with him, it'll be great..."
You whisper a" No" back in his demonic tounge, smiling towards the guard. "Ah. I figured this wasn't important enough for the King's men, being a rumor and all."
" We're only passing by. A night to rest, it's no issue to also protect the village"
Something rings off in his statement, and your demon-touched senses can almost smell the uncertainty in his words. Worry, perhaps of you being able to see through his statement...

>Pry further. In a public location like this, it might lead to an altercation.
>Insist in performing your job. You were already paid.
>[Demon-silver tounge] Perhaps you could get information if you seemed like a... Profitable business partner.

>>3161353
>[Demon-silver tounge] Perhaps you could get information if you seemed like a... Profitable business partner.

>>3161353
>[Demon-silver tounge] Perhaps you could get information if you seemed like a... Profitable business partner.
Surely nothing could go wrong.

>>3161353
>Insist in performing your job. You were already paid.

Just don't slut it up anons, that shit gor tired already everytime we get a decent femmc

>>3161353
>>[Demon-silver tounge] Perhaps you could get information if you seemed like a... Profitable business partner

>>3161364
>Implying I'd let them be sluts
Mama Black would never raise a witch like that.

>>3161353
>>Insist in performing your job. You were already paid.

>>3161353
>Insist in performing your job. You were already paid.

>>3161370
reasuring coming from the qm, if you don't make it clear I swear anons vote to fuck anything panis shaped that can pass by.

>>3161353
>Insist in performing your job. You were already paid.
Talk to him about the good faith between us and the people, and that it would only work out better for all parties if both us and the soldiers were to cooperate.

>>3161353
>>[Demon-silver tounge] Perhaps you could get information if you seemed like a... Profitable business partner.

>>3161353
>>Pry further. In a public location like this, it might lead to an altercation.

>>3161377
I, Anonymous, hereby swear to not vote to fuck everything with a dick that passes by.

>>3161353
>Insist in performing your job. You were already paid.

Guess we're an upstanding, moral girl who just so happens to summon demons. Or just not interested in whatever this guy's planning...

Writing...

>>3161353
>>[Demon-silver tounge] Perhaps you could get information if you seemed like a... Profitable business partner

>>3161353
>>Insist in performing your job. You were already paid.

>>3161393
>I, Anonymous, hereby swear to not vote to fuck everything with a dick that passes by.
So we are doing /u/? Lol

>>3161377
I swear to be selective in choosing which dick to fuck.

>>3161406
Wholesome /u/ with a cleric girl obviously

U-boats out reeeeeeeeeeee

You look the man up and down, tapping your fingers against the hard wooden staff you use while traveling--he stares at it, likely wondering if it's some sort of magical foci, and if he's about to be bewitched. You'd roll your eyes, if they weren't so visible.
"I'm afraid I've already been paid by the people of this village to perform my services, sir." Taking caution to force neutrality into your voice, you explain "I cannot return food I've eaten, so I have to uphold my word. Perhaps we could help eachother? The bandits likely won't bother with a town such as this"
He frowns, the grip around his sword tightening, but the blade not clearing the scabbard "You'd do well to know your place. The King's men-"

Please roll a 1d100. Higher is better. Best of 4

Rolled 98 (1d100)

>>3161420

Rolled 73 (1d100)

>>3161420
Rolling 1s

Rolled 89 (1d100)

>>3161420

>>3161421
Oop, everyone go home.

Rolled 20 (1d100)

>>3161420

Rolled 56 (1d100)

>>3161420

>>3161421
Well. The God of Sin approves.
>>3161406
>>3161417
>already banking on u before I even introduce another female character
BAKA. At least let me introduce characters first not biased by being into girls, no sir.
>>3161419
only boats that need to leave is harem boats. Those aren't allowed.

Guess we did well! Writing...

... Does shaking my head translate to baka now? Since when?

>>3161430
>No harem
But then one of our hand will not be held.

>>3161431
Forever desu senpai

>>3161431
Even before gook moot

" [...] The King's men-" You've had enough of this. You've seen through the lie, simple as it was, thanks to the gifts of your Lord. B'hil snickers, from within your shadow, and the man looks worried
"The King's men aren't here. They also wear a different uniform, for that matter" You raise your voice, grabbing the attention of a few of the villagers and some children who tried to sneak a glance at the Witch of their woods.
"You- there's been an uniform change. The taxes aren't enough to supply-"
You swing your staff towards his helmet, your familiar rushing to climb around your body and into the way of the drawn sword, blocking it with its shadowy flesh and splattering black ink on the ground. The wooden staff smashes against the metal helmet, ringing like a bell as the man takes a few steps back, shaken and disoriented.
"You know, you're really bad at this"
" You wretched-" His insults are cut short by a local mother slamming a pot onto the back of his head, a second bell-like ring as the man drops to the ground. She nods towards you. You know this woman--she'd perused your master's services, during her pregnancy. A simple potion and a false "blessing" to reassure her had been enough for a healthy child. You smile, hiding it with your hood as you turn, knowing the bandits will strike tonight.
You will have to show them why Witches are feared.

----Meanwhile, on a distant place...----

The boat sways as it travels down the river under the cover of night, the tanned passengers unwelcome in these lands. To travel through river or sea was to rise suspicion from the common folk, and their culture's association with pirates being a prejudice didn't help matters. In a world where the sea was feared, those who were suspect of praying to the Serpent of the Depths were always wary. It just so happened that, this once, they'd be right to.
Hidden in a small room behind crates laid a young woman, her face disfigured from birth, blackened left arm wrapped in cloth. Silvery strands of hair fell in front of her lone working eye as she kneeled in front of a bowl of water, sprinkling salt into it.
"Oh, Lord of the Seas, I offer you tribute..."
The waters swirled as she cut into her hand, blood mixing with the liquid as the Sea Witch prayed.
"To feed your many children, born of spite..."
Placing a chunk of raw flesh into the mix, it began to be eaten away by something unseen.
"May your lost eye watch over me in this night as it has every other..."
The river calmed imperceptibly , its flow slowed, the boat seeming more stable.
"And may we one day end the tiranny of the gods."
---

>>3161463

>tyranny

>>3161463
>OP has a damaged good fetish
It's time for me to hightail it out of here.

>>3161463
Katawa sea witch. Nice.

---Mina---

You sit down by the city gates, familiar at your side as you gaze up at the full moon. A bad omen-the streets of the town empty except for the guards assembled to fight back the bandits. You can already see them come, your eyes sharper than those of normal humans- in numbers that no doubt made them confident they could take on such a small village. It is time.

>Use fire magic to attack the bandits directly. Make a show of power, aided by your familiar.
>Call on the spirits of the Abyss to grasp at the bandit's legs, slowing them down and allowing the guards to have an easier time.
>Summon a demon to do the fighting for you. Binding a demon on the fly is difficult, but impressive. Unfortunately, it also tends to be terrifying.

>>3161476
>Call on the spirits of the Abyss to grasp at the bandit's legs, slowing them down and allowing the guards to have an easier time.

>>3161476
>>Call on the spirits of the Abyss to grasp at the bandit's legs, slowing them down and allowing the guards to have an easier time.

>>3161476
>Call on the spirits of the Abyss to grasp at the bandit's legs, slowing them down and allowing the guards to have an easier time.

>>3161472
>damaged goods fetish
>fetish
you're implying the sea witch is a waifu option
I mean you do you but don't put words in my mouth
>>3161467
FUCK.

>>3161476
>Call on the spirits of the Abyss to grasp at the bandit's legs, slowing them down and allowing the guards to have an easier time

>>3161476
>Use fire magic to attack the bandits directly. Make a show of power, aided by your familiar.

>>3161472
>quest features a disfigured woman
>"DAMAGED GOOD FETISH REEEEE"
Good ol' 4channel

>>3161476
>Call on the spirits of the Abyss to grasp at the bandit's legs, slowing them down and allowing the guards to have an easier time.

>>3161484
I for one, love some damaged goods.
But like you said, to each his own. She's pribably trying to kill us tho, being the sea witch that she is.

It seems we're playing support to the brave guardsmen of the kingdom.
>>3161496
She doesn't even know we exist or who we are.

Writing...

>>3161476
>Call on the spirits of the Abyss to grasp at the bandit's legs, slowing them down and allowing the guards to have an easier time
>>3161484
Anything but /u/ t b h. Every witch here has been either gay or bi

>>3161476
>Call on the spirits of the Abyss to grasp at the bandit's legs, slowing them down and allowing the guards to have an easier time.

>>3161504
I say we romance an effeminate demon boy. Pleases everyone

>>3161515
>I say we romance an effeminate demon boy. Pleases everyone
I say we romance nothing

>>3161476
>>Call on the spirits of the Abyss to grasp at the bandit's legs, slowing them down and allowing the guards to have an easier time.

>>3161504
It's natural. There are no women on the internet. Romancing boys as a boy is gay. We may all be fags, but we're not gay.

You raise your staff, standing on the plain behind the guard lines. Magic users aren't suited for the frontlines, usually, though you'd heard from your master some Paths-especially Dwarven ones were more combat oriented. With an incantation, you tinge your words red, calling to the monsters from beyond the world.
"Oh, children of Void, hear my call"
The soil beneath your feet exhales a gray cloud, a low hanging miasma extending forwards towards the charging bandits. The guards seem uneasy, but hold the line.
"Be my hands so that we may grasp our prize"
Countless hands of shadow and flame rise from the miasma, grabbing and clawing at the bandits legs. There's panic, but a shout from their leader promises even greater pain if they rout. The guards and their foes clash, blood watering the grass.
"And drag our foes into damnation"
The hands tighten their grasp, pulling down, brigands stumbling onto defender's swords. Both sides have casualties- as is the nature of any confrontation- but the bandits lose more and more, their numbers advantage not accounting for the aid of the forces of the Hells. The magic ends, your face paler, black blood visible swimming in your veins only hidden by the robes and the dark of night. The brigands rout. You could...
>Let them go. They wont be foolish enough to attack again any time soon-and even if they do, well, more profit for you.
>Cut their path with magic. You're already tired from such a large spell, but it is good to end the problem before it can fester again.

>Summon a demon to do the fighting for you. Binding a demon on the fly is difficult, but impressive. Unfortunately, it also tends to be terrifying.

If there is a damaged goods fetish then we need to stay away from abyss monsters and other tentacles to keep the story clean :)

>>3161529
how does this work with a woman qm asking for a friend.

>>3161533
>Cut their path with magic. You're already tired from such a large spell, but it is good to end the problem before it can fester again.

No mercy

>>3161533
>>Let them go. They wont be foolish enough to attack again any time soon-and even if they do, well, more profit for you.

>>3161533
>Cut their path with magic. You're already tired from such a large spell, but it is good to end the problem before it can fester again.
We likely need to sacrifice people for power anyway

>Cut their path with magic. You're already tired from such a large spell, but it is good to end the problem before it can fester again.

>>3161533
>Cut their path with magic. You're already tired from such a large spell, but it is good to end the problem before it can fester again

Finish this nuisance
Also, using more visible magic may make them think the investment was worth it after some of their people died.

>>3161533
>>Let them go. They wont be foolish enough to attack again any time soon-and even if they do, well, more profit for you.
We need problems to get jobs.
>>3161515
Acceptable compromise. Demon baby when?

>>3161538
She bites the bullet and writes glorious wholesome /u/

>>3161533
>Cut their path with magic. You're already tired from such a large spell, but it is good to end the problem before it can fester again.

Solving the problem may improve our relations with them

>>3161533
>Cut their path with magic. You're already tired from such a large spell, but it is good to end the problem before it can fester again.

>>3161533
>>Cut their path with magic. You're already tired from such a large spell, but it is good to end the problem before it can fester again.

It seems we're going to finish off this bandit MENACE.
>>3161550
>demon baby
I swear to God anons don't do this to me I will write the most wholesome shit.
>>3161551
Hmmm.

>>3161570
Wholesome family life with our demon wife(husband)

>>3161572
Or wife(wife)

>>3161578
Degenerates like you belong on a cross.

>>3161586
>literaly demon worshiping witch.

Duh, yeah.

Also this guy gets it >>3161529

>>3161590
Depends on the board really. I do know that boards some boards such as /x/ is at least 70% women.

>>3161591
>/x/ is 70% women
>all of them /u/boating paranormal witches

It has come full curcle, lol.
Just kidding.

>>3161591
Fuck me I butchered that sentence.

Stepping forwards, you walk towards the retreating brigands, the guards stepping aside and tending to their wounded. Your familiar laughs in your ear, the malicious shadow elongating and skittering across the ground under the moonlight
"As the blood shed by greed dyes the soil-" The demonic blood burns in your veins, your eyes a blazing orange, glowing like embers in the night.
"Come upon them tonight, oh sons of Wrath"
Flames blossom behind you, grinning faces and screaming mouths casting shadows, your familiar sinking into them, faster than the eyes can see, coiling around the retreating foes. Your veins blackened by the magic, your vision swims from the pain, but you cannot afford to lose control. That is not the way you chose.
"And punish the cowards who lay in our path"
The flames dive forwards, the running brigands tripping on the stretched form of your familiar, falling onto eachother in a blind panic as flames begin to lick their flesh, charring it. Your knees almost give, but you lean on your staff, smiling, and cough up a single drop of red blood as you stare into the pyre.

They won't be bothering the town again, not even as ghosts.

(they totally come back as ghosts)

>>3161604
Call mama necro, or better, tell mama sempai to teach us.

The town is silent as you make your way back. A few of the guards are eyeing you warily- the glow of your eyes having not faded yet. Perhaps you called on your demonic blood too much, but it shouldn't be permanent. The cool winter night bites away at your hands, even beneath the gloves - you curse at the thought of walking back to your abode, in a night like this, drained of magic and exhausted. Your familiar remains silent, perhaps similarly exerted - or maybe just a lazy bum.
It might be good to cash in what little goodwill this job will have earned you. Or perhaps it's better not to overstay your welcome.

>Stay at the local inn. You know it doesn't get many visitors, so you shouldn't be bothered. You'll leave before the sunrise, of course.
>Make the trek back to your master's former residence despite your current state.

>>3161619
>>Stay at the local inn. You know it doesn't get many visitors, so you shouldn't be bothered. You'll leave before the sunrise, of course.

>>3161619
>>Stay at the local inn. You know it doesn't get many visitors, so you shouldn't be bothered. You'll leave before the sunrise, of course.

eat in the room

>>3161619
>Make the trek back to your master's former residence despite your current state.

>>3161619
>Make the trek back to your master's former residence despite your current state.

>>3161619
>Stay at the local inn. You know it doesn't get many visitors, so you shouldn't be bothered. You'll leave before the sunrise, of course.

I want to ask - what do people think of the magic in this so far? Good? I didn't want to make it feel as simple or uninvolved as, say, DnD, but I'm wondering if people like it. Same with the writing.

>>3161619
>Make the trek back to your master's former residence despite your current state.

Got payd, leave., better not to give the peasants any idea to resent us.

>>3161619
>>Stay at the local inn. You know it doesn't get many visitors, so you shouldn't be bothered. You'll leave before the sunrise, of course

>>3161619
>Make the trek back to your master's former residence despite your current state

>>3161619
>Stay at the local inn. You know it doesn't get many visitors, so you shouldn't be bothered. You'll leave before the sunrise, of course.

>>3161633
I loved the fact that it leaves us drained, will make us think very hard before casting willy nilly

Also, what could be the consequences of casting too much.

>Make the trek back to your master's former residence despite your current state.

Make everyone roll a d20 and use the average everytime you want to use a spell :)

>>3161645
I feel like "Depends on the Path" is going to become my catchphrase, but for you as a Diabolist it could be things like unwanted demonic taint (such as the eye glow persisting after the spell, or the pain from the fire in your veins acting up), physical exhaustion, tribute being forcefully taken if you don't have enough to give, soul damage... Generally, it's best to work off smaller spells, both things you did (especially the first) were medium-large scale for you, as an apprentice.

>>3161633
What else can defeat us other than more witches?

>>3161654
Nice, can't wait to start using the other two.

>>3161619
>Stay at the local inn. You know it doesn't get many visitors, so you shouldn't be bothered. You'll leave before the sunrise, of course.
Tie breaker

>>3161619
>>Make the trek back to your master's former residence despite your current state.
Just take it slow, most things in the forest should be aware of you.

>>3161668
you suck.

>>3161658
Martials that are actually trained are pretty strong, these were mostly thieves and layabouts. Especially people trained to fight casters, who could close the distance, or people blessed by Gods (Think Paladins, but not necessarily Lawful or Good). Clerics of the Sun or Fire God are more common in the kingdom you're in, since they're the 2 major gods humans worship.
>>3161659
You could probably make one your minor path later on through doing its sacrifice, but at the moment your ability with the other two is pretty basic compared to Diabolism.

>>3161664
>>3161668

Roll the dice I say.
It clearly a divide, only the dice gods can free us from it

>>3161671
We should probably get on sacrificing for one of the other paths asap, and taking it further too.

>>3161668
Welp, we do need to regain ouur mana. So lets rest at an in instead of trekking
So
>>3161619
>>>Stay at the local inn. You know it doesn't get many visitors, so you shouldn't be bothered. You'll leave before the sunrise, of course.

Well then.
>>3161676
I'll give you the option at the end of this thread, but keep in mind Mina has been a Diabolist for a while as she trained under the Black Witch, so the secondary Path won't be as strong. Also that you are likely going to habe more paths avaliable later, and having too many is unwise. Perhaps you should wait for more options, since it's a big decision.
It seems we'll be staying at the local Inn.

You knock on the door to the Inn softly, stepping in without waiting for an answer. The locale is almost deserted at this hour, except for some of the guards who are being treated by the Innkeep, a woman already in her twilight years you've seen once or twice in the forest by herself. Not a dabbler, for those were rare, but certainly someone who knew more than they'd admit to holy men about herbal remedies
"I'll need room for one night. I trust there won't be an issue" You say, eyeing the wounded soldiers. She stops for a moment, shivering as she looks into your orange eyes, then continues treating the injured "N-no issue, miss. Will you be having breakfast tomorrow?" You blink. She didn't have to offer, and you hadn't expected her to, but perhaps she's grateful for having to treat less soldiers because of you. "No, I'm afraid not. Put some powdered dreadroot mixed with tea on a cloth and wrap it around the wound so it doesn't fester" You advice, drawing a few more stares--ignoring them as you head for your room. Your master always said one should repay kindness and malice both, and you've lived by those words, so far. The bed is as soft as a king's rest for your tired body, and it doesn't take you long to drift into sleep once you're away from prying eyes...

>>3161671
What would've been the least draining path to take?

Also I'm against veering away from diabolism. Is that sentiment a reaction to the consequences? You lot realise diabolism probably won't be the only thing with consequences, right?

Taking a small break. Dinner.

>>3161690
Nah I just want to see what otger things are out there, its not just the consequences, magic in the setting seems interesting and I would like to see what the others have to offer before committing fully to a path, I mean, I wasn't around for chargen(sadly) but we made a choice without knowing fully what we could do with the others, and like the qm said, we can adopt a second path to have more options or even change our patron if we feel like it, albeit with consequences.
Let's just wait and see before deciding anything, I, for exemple, didn't know there would be even more paths besides the tree initial ones so that got me even more curious

Personally, I sort of want to focus on one path and stick to it. We don't need to make the meme generalist MC.

>>3161690
Potions making takes almost no magical energy, so it's the one most people who aren't witches but practice some sort of magic might use. It does come with issues due to ingredients and reagents a lto more often. Necromancy generally is less draining than Diabolism since it works with existing corpses, but that's another difficulty.
>>3161703
The only Paths you're barred from are Air /Earth (Because you're human) and Sun(Because of being a Diabolist).
>>3161706
You can have a Major Path (Currently Diabolism) and 2 Minor Paths, but the more you spread yourself out the harder it is to deepen your power in one. Plus, the sacrifices could conflict, and the physical changes build up. As a recommendation, I'd wait until you have a few more options, but I won't be a cunt and hard lock you out of cool shit for no reason. Besides, that's what other party members are for /jk

---[???]---
The boat has docked near a village, the Sea Witch notices as she gazes into the bowl on her lap. The wandering river-people were not welcome, true, but much like other Witches, they were often tolerated for their usefulness to common folk, selling wares others wouldn't for cheaper than anyone... Depending on who you asked. It had been hard for her to secure travel on their ship, as someone devoted to the Serpent - it wasn't enough her deformities made people wary, but her sharp teeth and graying hair made apparent where her allegiances lie to those in the know. Eri found herself stowed away with the cargo in exchange for safety when the boat silently arrived at sea, away from prying eyes. Harboring her was crime enough for men to be burned at the stake, boats turned into tinder so the taint of her God wouldn't reach the blessed sea.

She paced around the small room, frustrated. These decievers, preaching false truths about her God, casting her away for the temerity of being born under ill omens. A person like her was as blessed as any priest, and shouldn't have to scurry away in the belly of ships like a rat. But one day-one day the shackles binding her God would shatter, and she'd be there, basking in its love and glory.

She turned as she heard the crates blocking her door being moved, seawater dripping from her fingers...
---

---Mina---
" Rise and shine, lazy arse! Rise and smell the ashes!" You wake to the cackling of your familiar, heart almost leaping out of your mouth as his words as you look around, sniffing the air-... Nothing. He is practically rolling on the floor.
"You never-born inkstain of a devil, will you stop scaring me like that?" Throwing an empty chamber pot at him, you stand up, having slept fully clothed. "It's time already?" The hour must be early alright, the sun not having deigned to shine over the horizon. Your stomach grumbles, but you know you should not stay for that sweet, promised breakfast...

You exit into the silent village, breathing in the freezing cold air, thankful for the inner fire of demonkind warming you up. Your master had often said that humanity was valuable, but that power was convenient - and it was true that most of the time it was comfort that you used your magic for, half to exercise it, half because warming up your bath without having to gather wood was something you'd earned by making a dark pact with the Lord of Sin.

The forest is oddly silent as you make your way back as well, and you let your vision slip into the realm between the physical and spiritual, lighting your path...

Please roll 1d100,best of 4

Rolled 56 (1d100)

>>3161809

Rolled 45 (1d100)

>>3161809

Rolled 59 (1d100)

>>3161809

Rolled 98 (1d100)

>>3161809
There comes the bandit ghosts

>>3161818
>>>>>>
Mina is truly blessed by the Dice Gods today. If only the other Witch was so lucky during her character generation rolls.

Writing...

>>3161818
Oh hey there 98, naive priestess get lol

>>3161821
Maybe she should not be a squid worshipper in the first place.

>>3161821
Don't shit talk damaged-chan, she will make the sea god

>>3161834
Proud*

Can we upgrade B'hil?

Your sight blurs and refocuses, opened to the hidden parts of the world. The spirits of the stream, calmed down after the rainfall stopped, were almost asleep - unusual, at this hour, but not unnatural. Those of the trees had yet to be woken up by the sunlight, but there was a faint trace of something somber in the air. You took a deep breath, moving towards the cabin, the sensation familiar - taste of ash and bone, and a faint smell of lavender. Had your master returned? With renewed strength, you move forward, closing the distance. It's a long path to walk in the mist, and one people would easily get lost in, without the Sight. You're almost too careless, despite having lived there for years, and barely manage not to trip over a tree root.

By the time of your arrival, the first rays of the sun are piercing through the fog, and you open the cabin door with your heart beating like a drum, expectant - only to find that your master had come and gone in the night, leaving only a note. Sighing, you lock the door behind you and pick up the piece of paper, smiling at the scribbles your master was jokingly known for among the few she considered equals. It was still hard to decipher even for you, sometimes.
"Mina- I heard you did a nice job at the village last night. Congratulations, you're shaping up to be a great Witch- but don't drop your guard, there's still a long way to go. And don't let that scamp B'hil boss you around, remember he's just your familiar.
I've been enjoying my travels- the men of the Church haven't been too big of an issue so far, but I fear something is brewing. Take care, and remember your lessons.
-Nico"
Seeing your master's name was always odd, and didn't quite fit with the image you had of her as the Black Witch, renowned Necromancer. You sit down in your kitchen, snapping your fingers to light a small fire and warm up the milk you'd taken as part of the payment for the job. It was time to have some well-deserved breakfast.
----

Thread end for today. Probably continue tomorrow--thanks for playing, and I hope you enjoyed the first run!

>>3161831
The God of the Sea is a gigantic sea serpent, not a squid.
>>3161834
She's my precious baby and I love her, but being born deformed under a full moon missing the same eye as the God that's most hated by major religions does not make you a lucky girl.

>>3161860
Thanks for running, really enjoyed it.

If anyone has questions, I'm still around to answer a few worldbuilding things, though only things that would be common knowledge or about mechanics (what few of them there are for now) >>3161869
Aww. I'm glad.

>>3161865
She will show them, and find true love in the process. Poor poor girl.

She reminds me of a shark hybrid changelling character we had once.

>>3161873
Demon babies. Can we have a wholesome demon hubby and his half demon kids.

>>3161873
Oh boy, ok.

First, how big and how is it organized the country we currently live in.
How much the churchs get involved in political matters.
Are there places where damaged-chan could visit openly, where her faith is accepted?
And why is her serpent god more hated and kill on sight than our diabolists? Are devils not seen as ultimate evil? Just someone you have to be very carefull about dealing with?

>>3161873
Are there witch covens in this universe? Do they have feuds and meetings and personal assassins and stuff? Is there self-buffing magic?

>>3161873
Adopted demon babies. Can we have a wholesome /u/ demon wife and her adopted demon kids lol

>>3161873
Are witch hunters in this world? What threats should a witch be on guard for? And +1 for wholesome demon hubby

>>3161878
>wholesome
>God of Sin
On the babies question, certain kinds of devil can crossbreed with humans, as is known to some witches, but the result tends to be a nightmare to raise. On the plus side they make great Diabolists or martials. On the negatives having Further Rite-esque physical changes on the level of "Oh fuck that witch is summoning demons and will kill us all" Witches without their power doesn't make them live long. Wholesomeness varies.
>>3161880
The country you're currently on, Alestra, is more or less regarded as the human capital of the world, and is a primarily trading power due to the fact only humans are capable of reasonably safe sea travel and a generally more active culture thanks to their major God (Fire) being more involved in trying to make them prosper. It's ruled by a King, but while he has absolute veto power and can do what he pleases, most decisions are handled by a council of "elected" noblemen and women.
There is no place recognized as a country where a Sea Witch is accepted officially, but pirates and distant island nations might be more supportive of her, even if her religion is forbidden.

The Serpent God is hated because he was unwanted - that is, when the Creator made the Sun, all the pre-existing darkness coalesced at the depths of the ocean, without anyone being informed of this until the other major gods found out there was a massive godly Serpent in the Oceans that didn't fit the Creators plans and waged war on it before it could create a race like they had, shackling it to the ocean depths. The Fire God abstained from this, but did not stop it, which is why the race he made can sail without being at risk from sea monsters. Or rather less risk. Elves and Dwarves are thought to bring bad luck on ships because of this.

The Church holds away over politics in this nation, but the King ultimately makes the decisions.

>>3161885
There are, and your master was part of a coven. However, you're not part of it at the moment, as you haven't been approached by them, but know and have talked to members. There is self buffing magic, to some degree in most paths, but the most prominent are Dwarven paths and the Fire path.

>>3161904
There are - they vary from angry peasants who think a pitchfork will be enough, to resentful priests with minor miracles, to actual specialist who gear and train towards being a nightmare to fight for magic users. Often times the major threat to witches is becoming too well known and important and people in power wanting to remove her so she doesn't get more support or threaten their hold over the area, their own power if they're not careful, or the supernatural.

>>3161912
>wanting to be involved with demons, male or female.

Let's not jump over ourselves, we didn't even meet any guys kr girls and you guys are already making plans, chill out, we pick em when we meet them.

I like the serpent god already. What are the other major gods?

>>3161890
just because you appeal to my fetishes doesn't mean I'll compromise my worldbuilding dammit

Also whoof, that was a lot of exposition

>>3161925
What happens to a caught witch? Is she getting the classic burned at stake punishment?

>>3161873
Can we make B'hil stronger?

>>3161936
I know, I know, it was mostly a joke.....

If you are up for some more worldbuilding tho, are there elves and dwarves in the country too or do they keep to their countries?
Magic itens, exist or not? And to what extent? Can we create some? Infuse some itens with our power?

>>3161936
From what I can see, witches don't have their own power so much as they borrow that of other creatures they call to their aid, and most magic seems ritual-based.

If this is not the case, would it be possible for a witch linked to fire like us to become a pyromancer? I ask this because pyromancers are the best.

>>3161935
There's the God of the Sun as the more widely worshipped among races, generally regarded as the one closest to the Creator before said Creator left the world.
The God of the Earth, who made the dwarves out of clay, and is generally not so much worshipped as he is acknowledged and appreciated by the dwarves, who treat him as the most senior and wise of citizens and father, but don't really pray to him.
The God of Wind, patron of the Elves, who doesn't do much and generally isn't fond of acting directly or empowering many champions, and is content to let his people mostly do whatever, which has reflected on the elves being a rather independent bunch who doesn't have much of a sense of community.
The God of Fire, patron of humans, who teaches its followers to enjoy life as much as they can and respect other's lives, but to defend themselves if necessary. Generally the more active of the major gods, and the one other races are more inclined to follow if not theirs.
>>3161942
If it's a Sea Witch, she is taken far from any large body of water and burned in broad daylight or under a new moon to prevent her God aiding them. Diabolists don't receive much better treatment, and Necromancers tend to be able to weasel out of it by cheating with divine intervention if they have enough favor with their God by having their soul put into another dead body if precautions aren't taken.
>>3161945
Elves usually are the most prone to wanderlust, and some are even successful traders, though they aren't too well liked in rural areas away from their own lands. Still, they tend to be useful enough if they're adventurers, though they have a reputation for completely missing social cues and norms.
Dwarves tend to stay in their mountains, and deal with other dwarves primarily, but it's not outlandish to see one in this country, usually trying to sell their inventions or on some pilgrimage if they don't follow the Earth God.
Magic items do exist but you're not particularly suited to making them. You know the basics, however.
>>3161948
Ritual magic calls less on a Witch's own power and more on their path patron, but they do have some personal power, especially after Further Rites. For example, your magic sight is innate to Witches, and your enhanced senses and ability to perceive lies better come from the Demon blood. Larger workings call more on the Path, usually.
Pyromancy falls under both Fire and Sin due to Sin being a fire and shadow mix in terms of physical abilities, but you can do basic pyromancy without chants at the moment, like lighting or sniffing small fires. You could definitely become better at it.

>>3161967
>Diabolists don't receive much better treatment
So there are methods to prevent us from calling demons when we're fighting or being roasted?

>>3162003
Usually involving priests, but generally if you're already at the point you're being burned for Diabolism you're probably a big deal and people hate you. You can weasel out much like Necromancers, but at a heavier cost.

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1.56 MB JPG

>>3161967
I like this and I hope it stays that way.

>>3162015
You can say that we would be pretty much..... toast

>>3162036
Forget the slash in the first square brackets.

>>3162016
Thanks anon, and nice picture!

-------------
You awaken sore, sitting in your chair in an uncomfortable position- seems you were more tired than you had realized, after last night. Your familiar is currently curled up on top of the table, an inky black shape snoring as it soaks up what few rays of the sun filter through the window like a hungry shadow- or a weirdly deformed cat. You almost feel bad as you unceremoniously shove him off the table to wake him up, the Imp clawing up the wooden surface like it's holding on for dear life, glaring at you with red eyes. You can't help but smile at your well deserved revenge.

The loud knocking at the door startles you, and so you grab your staff and button up your robe calmly and without rush. This deep into the forest, still in the early parts of the day, not many people would venture unless they were looking for something important- even the message about needing you for a job had been delivered to your familiar at the edge of the forest, and not directly to your cabin. It could be a hunter, though you doubt any experienced one would be so idiotic as to knock and give you warning. Still, perhaps it will do to make an impression on whoever is on the other side of the door, knocking so insistently.

>Open the door silently and without any supernatural flair, play down your Witch nature. Being approachable lands jobs as well.
>Ignite your eyes with the demonic blood in your veins, the blazing orange is sure to give an imposing visage without being aggressive. Not someone to trifle with.
>Speak from behind the door without opening it.

>>3163477
>Speak from behind the door without opening it.
>"Who goes there? Speak you business and we can discuss details."

>>3163477
>Ignite your eyes with the demonic blood in your veins, the blazing orange is sure to give an imposing visage without being aggressive. Not someone to trifle with.
Cunt ace woke us up this early in the morning?

>>3163477
>Open the door silently and without any supernatural flair, play down your Witch nature. Being approachable lands jobs as well.

>>3163479
Better to give an impression that we were already expecting them. We are, witch after all.

>>3163477
>Speak from behind the door without opening it.

Witch Apprentice Quest, more like tie every vote quest.

Alright! Immediately after we got a tiebreak.

Writing...

>>3163477
>Speak from behind the door without opening it.

Better save the magic for when needed

You stop before opening the door, letting your familiar sink into the shadows and slither outside, keeping an eye out. The knock begins again, and you cut it by raising your voice
"Who goes there, daring to brave the forest at these godless hours and knock on my door?" You creak out, putting effort into sounding more awake than you really are. "Speak your business or be gone from my land."
There is a pause, before a young man's voice, not too deep yet, calls from the other side of the door "Hey! Uh-" A cough. You get the feeling he was not expecting such a cold response "Oh, Witch of the forest, I require of your aid. You see- the spirits near my village have been acting strangely. Animals have been uneasy, and cattle has begun dissapearing. I'd have gone to fix it myself, but..."
You sigh. A coward, perhaps, though to come to you would hint otherwise- more likely he was just not sure he could fix the root of the issue himself. Pondering over the job offer, you recall your familiar, who climbs up to whisper into your ear"He is armed, but doesn't seem like a trap. Shoddy sword, leathers. Barely a threat"
You nod

>Lend your aid, but make it clear you will take your payment for it. You're a Witch, not a wandering adventurer.
>Question him further. Open the door and pry for information- Pays to be informed before making a decision.
>Deny him help. He probably will resent it, as will his village, but not being a local problem, it doesn't really concern you.

>>3163497

>Lend your aid, but make it clear you will take your payment for it. You're a Witch, not a wandering adventurer.

More business then.

>>3163497
>Question him further. Open the door and pry for information- Pays to be informed before making a decision.

>>3163497

>Lend your aid, but make it clear you will take your payment for it. You're a Witch, not a wandering adventurer.

>>3163497
>Question him further. Open the door and pry for information- Pays to be informed before making a decision.

>>3163497
>Lend your aid, but make it clear you will take your payment for it. You're a Witch, not a wandering adventurer.
Sounds good, but we do ask for more information after accepting it too?

>>3163509
He'll probably talk your ear off a bit.
We have a winner. Writing...

>>3163509
Good for me, make a couple questions and accept, saves us an update and its a nice compromise.

>>3163497
>question him further

>>3163497
Lend your aid, but make it clear you will take your payment for it. You're a Witch, not a wandering adventurer.
Give him a quest for coffe

You open the door, B'hil resting on your shoulders and staring right into the man's eyes. Now that you look at him, you notice your familiar's description was spot on- the handle of his weapon is visibly of poor quality, his leather armor consisting of just a chestplate and protection for his legs, and the man himself could barely have passed his twentieth year, a few younger than you without any of your experience. Dirty red hair tied up into a braid, an uncommon sight this far west. He takes a step back upon seeing you and your devil, raising his hands to show he wasn't holding his weapon "Oh, you're younger than I-" He begins, and you slam the butt of your staff into the stone steps leading down your door, shutting him up nicely.
"I will accept your request, but bear in mind I'll take my rewars, whether you're able to pay or not."
The young man nods, swallowing, clearly a bit intimidated by your way of speaking, but offers a handshake "I'm Resse. From Farstead. I was told you could help by a wanderer who came through town a few weeks back"
You blink, trying to hide your surprise. Farstead was a good ways east of here, even on horseback it'd take two weeks to arrive at the village near you. And this man had made the trek on foot?

>Introduce yourself, but don't shake his hand.
>Shake his hand. If he's willing to walk this far for your services, you feel he's earned some respect
>Just begin walking after locking your door. It's a long way and you'll need to stock up on provisions, no time to waste on pleasantries.

>rewars
Fucking hell.

>>3163530
>Shake his hand. If he's willing to walk this far for your services, you feel he's earned some respect
We will be walking a long way with him so it can't hurt to be nice.

>>3163530
>Introduce yourself, but don't shake his hand.

Tell me more about the problem on the while we walk.

>>3163530
>Shake his hand. If he's willing to walk this far for your services, you feel he's earned some respect

>>3163530
>Just begin walking after locking your door. It's a long way and you'll need to stock up on provisions, no time to waste on pleasantries.
Though wouldnt there be a witch closer to him? Y come here?

>>3163530

>Introduce yourself, but don't shake his hand.

Business like, ask how is the situation while gathering our things.

>>3163530
>Shake his hand. If he's willing to walk this far for your services, you feel he's earned some respect

>>3163540
There's not a Witch for every village, witches are rather rare and one can be helping a rather big area. However, there's probably a Witch closer -he did say someone recommended you to him.

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135 KB JPG

Alright, seems we're being nice to the traveler.
Writing...

>>3163544
Do we know how to deal with spirits?

>>3163546
We do. It's part of the basic training your master gave you.

Your familiar leaps down from your shoulders towards the door, closing and locking it. You walk towards the man, staring for a second at the offered hand before shaking it- if he walked such a long way to ask for your help, you're inclined to offer him some pleasantries, as you'll have to travel for that much at least with him. Besides, you have an inkling as to who could have recommended your services...- "I am Mina, the apprentice of the Black Witch. We'll fix this problem of yours... But I'm going to need some more information" you say as you begin walking towards the closest village "When did this begin?"
He is quiet for a moment, thinking. "I'd say it must have been about a month ago, the first sheep began dissapearing. We thought it might have been wolves or kobolds, but we couldn't find any signs of either - and then a cow dissapeared." Resse seems worried. It is true that a village like his depends a lot on the trade of wool- the Dwarves don't have the kind of animals that lend themselves to that sort of clothing, their local fauna being a more stout, rough sort, so a lot of the livelihood of Eastern villages comes from trading with them. "I was going to go out myself, but I couldn't find others willing to go find the problem with me, and then that woman arrived and told me we'd need the help of a Witch, and to come seek you out."
You nod. "So it's a problem with the spirits, then? They don't often take to kidnapping cattle. Sounds more like banditry to me."
The young man shakes his head "Bandits wouldn't be taking away the sheep, they'd be taking the wool or the money. And there aren't a lot of bandits around these days."
You think back to last night, but say nothing. It's going to be a long trip...

----

---[Eri]---

The boat cuts through the waves like a knife, unperturbed by rain nor wind, the less than legal cargo secure in its belly. The Sea Witch, finally out of the small room she had been hiding in, walks onto the deck, gazing out towards the endless expanse of dark waters under the leaden sky, her familiar coiled around her neck.
"We've made it, Aleister." She whispers to the snake, its blue scales soft and warm to her touch alone.

The other passengers of the boat eye her warily, giving the woman a wide berth. Their rendezvous with the "clients" wasn't too far, and they'd be rid of the Witch soon enough, but the voyage had been too quiet. The sailors were uneasy, though the captain quickly quieted their complaints with the promise of coin and enough men and women to "soothe" their tired bodies at port. It was risky business, but the pirates paid well, if one didn't mind where their gold came from.

The Sea Witch whispered a prayer to her lord, longing to feel its gaze again. The rumors the crew had about her didn't bother her in the slightest, and in truth, their fear of her was pleasant, as it made sure they did not bother her, but she was not dumb enough to have missed their true intentions to exchange her for coin to the pirates. That would not stand- and she'd make sure of it.
-----

Wohooo! Damaged-chan is back.

---[Mina]---
Two weeks later...

Resse shifts uneasy on his seat at the tavern, a short stop to rest, eat and drink without biting into their supplies, paid out of his own pocket, as the Witch had called it "Travel expenses".

You take a sip of ale, letting the alcohol burn as it flows down your throat, demonic taint making sure you could not enjoy the pleasures of being drunk - or suffer the pain of a hangover. The travel so far has been uneventful, other than some minor issues with wild boars that made a wonderful dinner once roasted. You're getting closer to your destination at a good pace, but it seems there has been a minor setback...
"I'm telling you we need to help" Says Resse, not even holding his tankard "We can't just pass by people in need and ignore them"
You roll your eyes. "We most definitely can. If they have problems, they can either bother the King's men about it, or ask for my help after we're done with yours. I'd have thought you'd want to help your village first?"
He looks down "Well, yes, I'm worried about them, but... Look, people going missing is more important than cattle going missing. We can't just let something like this continue when we can help!"

Looking down at the half-full tankard of ale in your hand, you look around the tavern. It looks less busy than it should be, for a town this size- but it's likely some adventurers will pass by and fix the problem, if you don't.
>Concede the point. You'll get your reward from the town anyways, one way or another, and it does pain you to let this happen. You're a Witch, but you're not heartless.
>Insist you can't afford to spend time here. This isn't what you're here for, and taking more detours will only slow you down.
>Write-In

>>3163530
>I was told you could help by a wanderer who came through town a few weeks back"
>even on horseback it'd take two weeks to arrive at the village near you. And this man had made the trek on foot?

>>3163556
>When did this begin?"
>I'd say it must have been about a month ago,"

not implausible, but not probable
it doesn't add up
let him talk though and look for clues of him lying

>>3163577
If they are willing to pay we help, a job like any other, don't know why he is making a fuss about it.

>>3163577
>>Concede the point. You'll get your reward from the town anyways, one way or another, and it does pain you to let this happen. You're a Witch, but you're not heartless.

>>3163577
>Insist you can't afford to spend time here. This isn't what you're here for, and taking more detours will only slow you down.
We can't just go around and work for free.

>>3163582
Oh, and if his village problem gets worse because we are because of the time spent him we are getting a bonus.

>>3163577
We can stop here and help. If they are willing to pay. We're a witch not a hero.

>>3163582
>>3163586
This.

If they pay we help, otherwise we do this>>3163584

>>3163581
partly my goof, as it should be more like a month and a half, but I'm going to chalk it up to this Boi not being very good at keeping track of time while traveling.

>>3163589
>>3163586
Backing

Seems we're going to help... For a prize. Mina probably has something in mind already...

Writing.

Oh, please roll 2d6. No reason in particular. Trust me.

Rolled 2, 2 = 4 (2d6)

>>3163600

Rolled 4, 1 = 5 (2d6)

>>3163600

>>3163602
>>3163601
Well, those aren't the best rolls. Guess someone isn't as lucky as Mina.

Rolled 3, 2 = 5 (2d6)

>>3163600
Don't mind me, I'm just a pdf file.

You drum your fingers on the table, thinking for a moment "A horse.", you say
Resse blinks, confused "What about a horse?"
Leaning back on your chair, you smile- perhaps it's the demon blood that makes it so satisfying to confuse people, or perhaps it's just the face your traveling companion makes, but you deign to elaborate "A pair of horses, hopefully - that will be the payment. Go and try to convince the town guard, if you'd like- if they agree to give the horses to us, we can both solve the problem, get paid, and might even cut some time from our trip"
Resse looks up, smiling brightly "I knew you'd help -"
You interrupt him "If we get the horses"
This doesn't seem to make him less happy about it, and he stands up, heading towards the exit "I'll be back once they've agreed!"

Sighing, you look at your shadow, and it smiles. "What do you think, B'hil?"
"He's a dumbass. But we could use a meatshield, or sacrifice fodder."
You make an obscene gesture towards the shadow when nobody is looking for the implication you'd sacrifice a client. Or a human being. You're not that kind of Diabolist.
"Come on! Virgin sacrifices are hard to come by these days, and he's the biggest virgin I've ever-"
The door opens, and Resse comes in, followed by a pair of... Less than sober looking guards. That was... Quick. Suspiciously quick, you want to say-but your demonic senses detect nothing unusual. Unless...
He sits down opposite of them, ordering a few drinks, and takes our a pair of dice. You sharpen your senses, gazing at the dice...
>Use your magic to influence the dice rolls in his favor. Your Familiar should be more useful for this
>Let him try his luck, whatever he's betting on. It's his plan, not yours.

>>3163606
>Use your magic to influence the dice rolls in his favor. Your Familiar should be more useful for this

>>3163606
>Let him try his luck, whatever he's betting on. It's his plan, not yours.
Not wasting our magic.
And it could cause trouble if they suspect, besides, he didn't pay for it.

>>3163606

> Use your magic

Assuming we're not standing right next to him. Because if we're anywhere near these dice the fuckers are going to blame it on us even if we don't help him.

>>3163606
>Let him try his luck, whatever he's betting on. It's his plan, not yours.

>Going to drunk looking guards about this
Oh geez, Resse is naive ain't he?

>>3163606
>Let him try his luck, whatever he's betting on. It's his plan, not yours.

>>3163606
>Use your magic to influence the dice rolls in his favor. Your Familiar should be more useful for this
The horse is useful for us too

>>3163606

let him try it

Rolled 1, 1 = 2 (2d6)

Guess we're having him try his luck... Writing

>>3163606
>Use your magic

>>3163620
That's a lot of unluck

>>3163620
Snake eyes, oh dear.

>inb4 the snake god manifests on the ale.
No u boats could save us from this flood.

>>3163620
LOL we should've helped this poor lad

>>3163627
Nah, hes a client but we should not go out of our way, or do stuff for free.

>>3163630
A horse would be very useful for us after this job is done.

>>3163630
>>3163627
Besides, we can offer them our services on the way back after we seal with the other village problem, no harm done.

Resse takes a sip from his drink, talking happily to the guards, who seem to be buying whatever he's saying, for the most part-probably due to him inviting them for drinks. He takes out two more pairs of dice, handing them to the guards. Your familiar looms close, hiding in the guard's shadows, his smile only visible to you as it relays the results of the rolls. But that is not needed, as Resse lets his face hit the table in frustration, while the guards cheer and order another round of drinks- it seems the man's pockets will be suffering after tonight. You just sip your own ale, containing a smile as the redhead makes his way back to you, defeated.
"No luck?"
He shakes his head "They'd have given me their horses if I won. I really thought I had a chance... But I guess it was just chance."
You feel a twinge of regret for not messing with the dice, but stand up. Maybe you can con them out of the horses yourself. After all, as a Witch of Sin... Well, you're already in a tavern, and they're already drunk. Or perhaps you should take it with the sober town guard instead of playing games or sweet talking.
>Con the drunkards out of their horses. It will be faster.
>Take things through more... Honest proceedings. If you get denied, you just leave, and if you don't, well, you'll probably get to swing some extra payment

>>3163638
>Con the drunkards out of their horses. It will be faster

>>3163638
>Take things through more... Honest proceedings. If you get denied, you just leave, and if you don't, well, you'll probably get to swing some extra payment

Lets just make a proper deal, we make a service and get payd, if we con them we might get introuble, drunken trouble and I don't sant to cn0 urn dome fools

>>3163638
>>Con the drunkards out of their horses. It will be faster

>>3163638
>Take things through more... Honest proceedings. If you get denied, you just leave, and if you don't, well, you'll probably get to swing some extra payment

>>3163640
>drunken trouble and I don't sant to cn0 urn dome fools
Damn my phone is a mess

Drunken trouble, and I don't want to have to burn some fools.

>>3163638

> Con them.

Honestly? They're drunk, we're a witch. This should be simple.

>>3163638
>Take things through more... Honest proceedings. If you get denied, you just leave, and if you don't, well, you'll probably get to swing some extra payment

Why didn't he do this in the first place? Is he stupid?

>>3163638
>Con the drunkards out of their horses

Seems we're being a nasty gambling witch. Is it gambling if you use demons?

Writing...

>>3163648
>>3163643
>>3163640
We should really just make an honest deal and see what they offer

Man this is stupid...

>>3163652
Well, at least se get 2 horses, after we finish the jobs we can sacrifice one and keep the other

Also, can we make a deal with the city and get even more stuff? I don't like working outside the proper channels, that's how witches get burned.

>>3163656
Actually, if we get the horses ourselves we don't need to help the city sonce nobody paid us, we can just leave, or charge something else.

I retract my statement, this was not so stupid after all.

You stand up, causing Resse to look at you "Where are you going?"
Staring at him, you roll your eyes "If you wanted to do something like this, you should've asked me to help. What were you thinking?"
The young man looks aside, blushing...? "Look, I'm sorry, I just thought it'd be impressive if I managed to do it, and it'd solve the payment thing..."
You sigh, hitting him upside the head softly. He yelps like a kicked puppy "I'll be expecting bigger payment after this, young man."
"You're not that much older than me-"
You don't waste the time to answer that as you make your way towards the drunk guards, securing your hood to hide the horns on your head before you sit down on the spot Resse had been in, getting their attention "Gentlemen. Seems you've had good luck today - how about another game, huh?"
They look at eachother "What, you feeling lucky, girl? Heh heh, what're you offering? Your friend there already got us drinks." asks the more corpulent one, his breath reeking of liquor. Your familiar laughs silently, hiding in the shadows of the dice while you have their attention
" Well, tell you what - If I win, I'll take one of your horses. If I lose... " You look towards your traveling companion "You get the rest of his purse to do whatever you want. Sounds fair?"
They look at one another. Seems they're not drunk enough to risk their horses again... Not without a little push. It takes the barest of efforts, to do this to someone so inebriated, being an act so explicitly within your domain, but the vapors of alcohol cloud their brain just a little more.
"You're on, lass."
The dice are out again. You offer a best of 3 approach, reminiscing about how your master's friend used to do it when they came to her cabin for coven meetings. That old hag was a natural at it, and she had conned you out of more than her fair share of coin. You win the first one, with ease, and lose the second soundly. They laugh, and you have the decency to look troubled, before casting the dice for a final time, barely scraping a number above theirs.
"What the-" The man's companion begins, agitated, but his corpulent friend stops him "'s just luck, you're too drunk... Shouldn't have taken the bet again, heh heh"
You thank the taller man, scooping up the dice as you head outside, followed by Resse.
---(1/2)---

>>3163661
Poor guards, they took it up well, feel bad about stealing from them.

" That was amazing, Mina! You're pretty lucky, unlike me" He laughs, clearly in a chipper mood. You're not going to tell him you cheated...
"I only got one horse, so if you want to make your way on horseback, you're going to have to ask the city."
"But-you won!"
"Yep" You say, smirking like the devil on your shoulder "I did. You lost. Now let's go do this properly, we can get more coin if we don't have to ask for another horse-" You easily locate the drunkard's horse with the Sight, a rather badly-kept mare. Not the ideal mount you'd have hoped, but it'll do. You calm it down, climbing onto its back- at least it was well trained.
Resse looks up at you, clearly you're more imposing on horseback. "Huh. Are you sure we can't share the horse?"
You begin riding slowly away from him "No."

---[Resse]---
Today has not been your day, you muse as you stare up at the woman who's become your traveling companion and only hope to save your village. Well, almost only hope.

Your name is Resse Brommson, from the town of Farstead, shepherd and, you'd like to think, adventurer-to-be. You sought out the Witch from the distant woods near Wellfast after being advised by a pale traveler with too many scars, and you really, really wish you hadn't lost that bet.

The streets of the river-side town were busy with activity despite the dissapearances, your leather armor and sword barely eliciting a curious look from the occasional child playing around. After asking for directions to the town hall, you found yourself wishing Mina would have accompanied you there instead of going to "Take care of supplies", which you assume was the reason she took the remained of your purse. You'd have denied her that, if it hadnt been for her assurance she'd pay of her own pocket as well, but you never knew with the Diabolist. You thought she was probably a better person than she let on, and were still pretty sure of it, for now.

Arriving at the town hall, you look around for...

>The Mayor themselves. Probably your best bet if you want to secure the payment.
>The captain of the Guard, who you've been told has his office here.

>>3163671
>>The Mayor themselves. Probably your best bet if you want to secure the payment.

>>3163671
>The Mayor themselves. Probably your best bet if you want to secure the payment

>>3163671

>The Mayor themselves. Probably your best bet if you want to secure the payment.

>>3163671

>The Mayor themselves. Probably your best bet if you want to secure the payment

Okay wow no ties this time.
>>3163668
Eh, on the plus side, you'll probably treat the horse better.

Wondering what people think of Resse so far, though he hasn't had much spotlight yet.

Writing..

>>3163671
>The Mayor themselves. Probably your best bet if you want to secure the payment.

>>3163682
He's cute and dumb. Would make an excellent cannon fodder or meatshield.

>>3163682
Kind of anoying but no major issues so far

>>3163682
He's a client, maybe can turn out to be a friend, but we probably won't see each other after the job I think, he lives too far a way.
Wans't giving him any attention until you turned PoVs.

You walk up to the man at the counter, flashing a winning smile and puffing out your chest a bit "Hello! I'd like to speak to the Mayor, please"
The man looks up at you, blinking "Adventurer? I'm guessing it's about the dissapearances. Look, the Mayor is busy, the guard is on it-"
"Well, the guards don't have help from a Witch." You say, confidently, beaming at being called an adventurer. The man stops, looking at you up and down, as if reassessing his opinion "A Witch? Which witch?"
You bite your tounge, reminding yourself to be as confident as possible "Oh, well, I was actually hiring her to help me fix a similar problem in Farstead, I assure you, she can be trusted."
The man sighs"And I'm assuming you two will want payment for this, if you do succeed" He stares at your sword, drumming his fingers on the table"I'll inform the mayor myself, but, ah, what payment did you have in mind?"
Stay calm, Resse. You can do this. You messed up earlier, but this is your moment.

>A horse and enough money to cover the supplies for half the travel to Farstead. Be conservative- ask for too much, and you'll lose the opportunity.
>A horse and enough money to make the trek to Farstead and back. Get a little extra there, hopefully making Mina happier about this whole ordeal.

>>3163693
>get a little extra

We already lost in minas eyes. See if we can get a bit more with her

>>3163693

>A horse and enough money to cover the supplies for half the travel to Farstead. Be conservative- ask for too much, and you'll lose the opportunity.

Better not fuck up again

>>3163693
>A horse and enough money to cover the supplies for half the travel to Farstead. Be conservative- ask for too much, and you'll lose the opportunity.